Bike Across Kansas 2025- Colorado to Missouri June 7-14 2025
Welcome
This is the place where the miles meet the music, the sweat meets the smiles, and every pedal stroke tells a story. Here you’ll find pictures, events, and all the unexpected moments from the Bike Across Kansas 2025 journey—and a few other adventures along the way. It’s about friendship, focus, and the kind of determination that only comes from hitting the road with your crew. So buckle up (or strap in, or clip in!), and let’s roll.
There’s something about the open road that tests every part of you—body, mind, and spirit. But it’s not just the miles or the sweat that matter; it’s the friendship that carries you, the joy found in every pedal stroke, and the quiet focus that turns planning into progress. Our journey starts with a handshake at mile zero, but by the time we hit 478 miles, we’re well past handshakes—our bond forged through blood, sweat, and tears—the kind only the road can build. Along the way, it’s the push we give each other—the encouraging word when the hills get steep, the shared laughter on the long stretches—that keeps us moving. This ride isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about the steady determination to keep moving forward, no matter what. It’s about direction that keeps us headed true, drive that pushes us past the tough spots, and the discipline to show up day after day. Together, we’re not just cycling across Kansas—we’re building something that lasts.
Friday June 6 2025
Today’s travel day —
We’re all packed into cars, rolling across the state toward St. Francis, Kansas, about 14.3 miles from the Colorado border. As we sit and watch the miles tick by, it’s hard not to think about the 478 miles we’ll be riding back across Kansas. That mental adjustment is real — trading car seats for bike seats, from staring out windows to pushing pedals. Once we get to St. Francis, we’ll find the high school where we’ll be staying. From there, we’re on our own to get to the border—many of us will catch rides out and then roll in. That’s how day one wraps up. Tomorrow, Saturday, officially kicks off the ride. Bak2025
The below picture is Topeka, Kansas, Capital. Best picture I could come up with.
Welcome to the Jungle — Featuring Robert, Brad, Shaune & Rob, Bike Across Kansas 2025 Begins at the Colorado-Kansas Border
Out of Colorado, 525 riders running down the dream — Bike Across Kansas 2025 kicks into gear
St. Francis, Kansas imits sign marking the entrance to the town along the Bike Across Kansas route.
Gym Rats light out @ 2200 light on on at 0600 Cpap crew at random
Tent Rats 70% chance of rain-Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
Bak Day1 St Francis to Oberlin
The first third was nice and flat, then we hit some rolling hills, steady 2–4% climbs that kept the legs honest. The roads were in great shape with wide shoulders, and traffic was practically nonexistent. Out here, the only ones watching us ride by were cows — lots of cows. They didn’t seem impressed. Just kept chewing and judging. Miles of wheat fields waved in the breeze like they were cheering us on, but those cows? Stone cold.
Some folks might say there’s nothing out here — but to me, it’s wide-open beauty. Big skies, quiet roads, and a peaceful kind of freedom that’s hard to find anywhere else.
BAK2025 Day One Closing —
Well, that’s a wrap for Day One of Bike Across Kansas 2025. The miles rolled by steady, the roads stayed quiet, and yep — the cows made their usual appearances. Riding this route again brought back some solid memories from 2016 and reminded me why these wide-open Kansas highways are something special.
Tomorrow, we’ll be heading closer toward the Flint Hills, with those tougher hills still waiting for us later this week. So for now, it’s time to rest, take care of the bike, and get ready for whatever comes next.
Thanks for riding along today. Keep those wheels turning, and I’ll catch you down the road!
Day 2 Bak Oberlin to Logan Kansas
Day Two came at us like a geography teacher with something to prove—hills all day long, and not the kind you brag about climbing. These were sneaky suckers, rolling in at 1% to 4%, just enough to slowly drain the life from your thighs without offering the dignity of an actual mountain. It felt like the road was always saying, “I’m not steep, I’m just disappointed in your cardio.”
Around mile 50, we finally caught a break and turned south with the wind—a glorious shift that made us feel like we’d just hit the turbo button on a rusty lawnmower.
The shoulders on the road? Let’s just say they were more like elbows. Barely there. Enough room for a bike if you held your breath and didn’t flinch when semis passed.
Cow count: Shockingly low. We were beginning to think they all got the memo and took the day off. We did see enough wheat fields to qualify as honorary scarecrows by the end of the ride. If wheat had a fan club, today’s route was the national convention.
Weather-wise, it was postcard perfect: bright, sunny skies and a generous helping of crosswind coming out of the north at 20mph. That meant we had a full-on side slap from Kansas herself—like Mother Nature reminding us, “You’re not in Missouri yet, sweetheart.”
But spirits stayed high, the legs kept turning, and Day Two is officially in the books.
📜
Station 15: The Wild West Comes to Norton… Sort Of
Rolling into Norton, Kansas, it’s easy to miss. Just a little building under the water tower, with a small sign and an old-fashioned push button by the window. But inside? History meets hilarity in a way only the Midwest could deliver.
Welcome to Station 15: Wild West Dummies — a roadside oddity that’s been baffling, amusing, and charming travelers for decades.
This little stagecoach station was once part of the Butterfield Overland Despatch route. But now, it’s home to a group of very still, very papier-mâché legends of the Old West. Peer through the glass and you’ll spot Billy the Kid, Wild Bill Hickok, Pat Garrett, Buffalo Bill Cody, Calamity Jane, Judge Roy Bean, and a few others — all jammed together like they’re having one last awkward reunion. Never mind the fact that many of them never met in real life, let alone all passed through Norton. The charm is in the absurdity.
Push the button and a gravelly old recording kicks in, spinning tall tales about these “guests” of Station 15. It’s like stepping into a Western ghost story told by your slightly confused uncle — and it’s all the better for it. You half expect the mannequins to blink. (They won’t. Probably.)
In a world of high-tech everything, Station 15 is a delightful reminder that not all history needs to be polished to be powerful. Sometimes, it just needs a little local pride, a dash of weird, and a willingness to embrace the wonderfully bizarre.
📍 Location: Station 15 — 404 N Kansas Ave, Norton, KS
📌 GPS Coordinates: 39.8373° N, 99.9008° W
#shaunenation #BAK2025 #kansasoddities #roadsideamerica #station15 #wildwestweirdness
At one of our Sag stops BAK Day 2
Today’s lunch stop at 30 Mile was a total win. Hosted inside a local church, it had all the charm and hospitality you’d expect from small-town Kansas—and then some.
We were treated to a make-your-own sandwich bar, roll-up style, with all the fixings. Fresh veggies, deli meats, spreads, and soft rolls—it hit the spot after a long morning of riding. And the homemade cookies? Let’s just say some of us may have gone back for seconds… and thirds. (No judgment on BAK.)
The ones sleeping outside tonight have got a wonderful evening. and no wind, and just a beautiful evening.
🌅 BAK Day 2 End in Logan – A Sunset, a Show, and Small-Town Soul
As the sun began its slow descent behind the tents, casting that perfect golden glow across our little bike village, we rolled into the heart of Logan, Kansas—and what a welcome they had waiting for us.
The whole downtown came alive with classic small-town magic. There was food, music, games, and even a car show—chrome polished, engines humming, proud owners smiling. It wasn’t just an event—it was a celebration. You could feel the town’s heart in every handshake and homemade lemonade.
Some of us pitched our tents out in the soft evening light, catching that unforgettable view of the sunset filtering through the fabric—a photo that says more than words ever could. The rest of us bunked down in the gym, grateful for a roof and a floor that felt like luxury after a day in the saddle.
Logan didn’t just host us—they embraced us. And after a day of hills, crosswinds, and wheat field miles, it was the perfect way to end Day 2: full hearts, tired legs, and a sky painted just for us.
Bak Day 3 Logan to Osborne Kansas
Day 3 – Ride Like the Wind
Day 3 of BAK 2025 served up the kind of riding that makes you forget your legs are mad at you. We rolled out of town into cool 50-degree air, a manageable 8 mph wind from the west, and scenery straight out of a rural postcard: low traffic, wide shoulders, and just enough hills to keep us honest. Cows were in low supply today — maybe they were still snoozing, or maybe they just saw us coming and didn’t want to be judged.
We started westbound with a climb or two, but nothing compared to yesterday’s quad-burners. After about 20 miles, we took a long southern swing, then hooked east — and that’s when the ride turned magical. With a glorious tailwind, we were cruising a steady 20–22 mph, grinning like kids on the world’s flattest roller coaster. Fields flew by — most of them strangely unplowed, like they were waiting for a cosmic snooze button. (Farmers, are y’all good?)
The day ended in Osborne, Kansas, where we’re bunking in a solid old schoolhouse built back in 1931. You can still feel the chalk dust in the air and imagine some teacher yelling at kids for chewing gum. The town? Classic Kansas — friendly folks, old brick buildings, and the kind of welcome that makes you want to stay a little longer. No stoplights. No chain stores. Just heart.
“And I got such a long way to go… to make it to the border of Mexico.”
— Christopher Cross, Ride Like the Wind
#RideLikeTheWind #shaunenation #BAK2025 #osbornekansas #bikerideblog #tailwinddreaming
Hot Wheels Speed Kansas (old water tower)
One Cow
Rolling Kansas fields stretch beneath a vast blue sky, with more trees starting to appear as we roll east
Kirwin’s Old Depot: Echoes of the Rails
A Historic Stop Near Kirwin, Kansas
In the mid-19th century, Station 13 served as one of many key waypoints along the Butterfield Overland Dispatch (B.O.D.), a short-lived but important stage and freight route that helped connect the Missouri River to the gold fields of Colorado. Located just outside Kirwin, Kansas, near the junction of Deer Creek and the Solomon River, Station 13 provided essential services for travelers making the long, often grueling journey across the Kansas frontier. Stagecoaches and freight wagons stopped here to rest, change horses, and resupply. The area around Station 13 was noted in traveler diaries for its shade trees — uncommon in the open prairie — including groves of oak and elm that made it a more pleasant stop compared to others along the route.
The B.O.D. route was developed in 1865 during a period of westward expansion and heavy migration, and while its use was brief due to the development of railroads, it played a critical role in mail delivery and passenger travel during a formative time in Kansas history. The old depot building in Kirwin is one of the few visual connections left to that era, standing as a quiet monument to the region’s transportation past. Though modern roads have replaced the dusty trails once used by the stagecoaches, the history of Station 13 and the surrounding area remains an important chapter in the story of settlement and travel across the Great Plains.
Still Waters on the Kansas Plains
Sharing the Road – Kansas Style
BAK Back Up Plan: Prairie Edition
Kansas Unplowed Fields WHY?
Why Are So Many Kansas Fields Unplowed This Year?
A significant factor contributing to the unplanted fields across Kansas is the ongoing federal funding freeze affecting key agricultural programs. Initiated by the Trump administration, this freeze has disrupted payments for conservation and energy efficiency projects under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Programs like the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) are currently on hold, leaving farmers without the financial support needed to implement sustainable practices such as cover cropping and soil erosion prevention .kwch.com+5kcur.org+5kcur.org+5kcur.org+4kmuw.org+4thisistopeka.com+4
Additionally, the delay in passing the 2024 Farm Bill has created uncertainty in agricultural policy and funding. With the current bill extended through September 2024, farmers are operating under outdated provisions that may not address current economic challenges, such as rising input costs and fluctuating commodity prices .adamsbrowncpa.com+1kansasreflector.com+1
These financial uncertainties have led some farmers to delay planting, as they cannot afford the upfront costs without guaranteed reimbursement. The combination of funding freezes and policy delays has left many Kansas farmers in a precarious position, unable to proceed with essential agricultural activities.kcur.org
Alton, Kansas – Home of Russell Stover
Alton, Kansas, and the Sweet Legacy of Russell Stover
Alton, Kansas, a small town with a rich rural heritage, holds a special place in American candy history as the hometown of Russell Stover, the founder of the iconic Russell Stover Candies. Born in 1888, Stover grew up in this quiet community before embarking on his journey into the confectionery business. His innovations and dedication to quality helped shape one of the most beloved chocolate brands in the United States. While Alton remains a modest town surrounded by the wide-open plains of Kansas, it proudly celebrates its connection to a man whose sweet creations brought joy to millions. The story of Russell Stover is a classic example of small-town roots leading to nationwide success, a true testament to American entrepreneurship and tradition.
SAG Party: The Grand Finale
The final SAG turned into a proper shindig, with the Scab SAG crew crashing the party like they owned the place. Between laughs, stories, and some questionable dance moves, it was clear this wasn’t just any SAG stop — it was a celebration worth remembering. Good times all around, and maybe a few regrets the next morning. Classic SAG style.
Tractor, Cyclists, and Elevator on Highway
Finally our end town Osborne Kansas
Highways, SAG Stops, and a Whole Lotta Kansas
Well, today was one for the books — and possibly the blooper reel. We started the morning rolling out under that big Kansas sky, greeted by low traffic, high spirits, and about 47 cows silently judging our lycra. The wind behaved (for once), the roads were mostly smooth, and the tractors… well, the tractors decided they’d share the road, bless their slow-moving hearts. One even looked like it was racing us — spoiler alert: it won. Barely.
Midday brought a mix of heat, hydration, and hijinks. We passed by an old grain elevator standing proud in the distance like a prairie lighthouse, guiding us toward more SAG snacks. Speaking of SAGs — today’s final stop didn’t just feel like a reward, it was one. Music bumping, balloons floating, and the Scab SAG crew rolling in like they were the surprise guests at a reunion show. Suddenly it wasn’t just water and peanut butter crackers — it was a party. One rider may or may not have attempted a dance move (we’ll let the bruised ego and sore hip confirm later).
We hit Osborne and were welcomed by the city limits sign like it was a red carpet. Tired legs, dusty smiles, and sun-kissed faces rolled into town knowing we were one day closer to the finish — and a shower. Honestly, if every ride ended with music, balloons, and tractors acting like unofficial escorts, we might never stop pedaling.
So here’s to today: a little wild, a little weird, and a whole lot of wonderful. Tomorrow, we ride again — but tonight, we rest like champions… with snacks.
#BAK2025 #KansasCycling #ShauneNation #TractorTraffic #SAGParty #OsborneKS #RollingStrong
Bak Day 4 Osborne to Mankato (were half way)
– A Chilly Start, A Northern Nudge
We rolled into Day Three with a brisk 48 degrees greeting our morning pedals—just enough chill to make your coffee feel like a survival tool. A gentle breeze whispered out of the south at 4 mph, hardly enough to ruffle a flag, but just enough to remind you you’re alive and moving. Oddly enough, our route pushed us more north than west today, like the map had a little detour planned. But don’t worry—we’ll swing back on track soon. The next two days will steer us firmly westward again as we chase sunsets and state lines.
Downs, Kansas was established in 1879.
Downs, Kansas: Small Town, Big Welcome — Tucked into north-central Kansas, Downs is the kind of town that proves small doesn’t mean sleepy. Founded in the 1870s when the Central Branch Railroad rolled through, it’s got old-school railroad roots and good ol’ Midwest charm. Riders rolling into Downs might spot the historic Carnegie Library, a proud little reminder of how this town punches above its weight. With friendly faces, wide streets, and a backdrop of grain elevators and prairie sky, Downs gives you that classic Kansas feeling—like you’ve pedaled into a Norman Rockwell painting with a windbreaker on. #DownsKansas #KansasCycling #SmallTownCharm #BAK2025 #MidwestMagic #ShauneNation
The World's Largest Ball of Twine is located in Cawker City, Kansas
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine: A Tangled Tale of Community Spirit
In the small town of Cawker City, Kansas, a humble hobby grew into a legendary roadside marvel. Starting back in 1953, Frank Stoeber began winding sisal twine into what would become a massive ball—little did he know this wasn’t just a craft project, it was the start of a local legend. Over decades, the entire community got involved, adding twine and stories alike, turning it into a symbol of persistence, unity, and just a touch of Kansas quirkiness. Today, the ball weighs over 27,000 pounds, stretches 46 feet in circumference, and has over 8.5 million feet of twine wrapped up inside. Visitors flock to Cawker City not only to marvel at this giant knot but to join in the fun each August during the annual Twine-a-thon, where they can add their own bit of twine—and maybe a little piece of their story—to this ever-growing giant. It’s proof that sometimes, greatness comes in the most unexpected, tangled forms.
BAK 2025: Hitting the Halfway Mark with Grit and Gears
Halfway across Kansas and feeling every bit the champions we are! On this fine Tuesday, we hit the mid-point of our Bike Across Kansas 2025 journey, muscles humming and spirits soaring. It’s not just about the miles conquered, but the stories shared, the friendships forged, and the open roads that keep calling us forward. We celebrated with big smiles, high fives, and a whole lot of well-earned pride — because making it this far is no small feat. Here’s to the next half, filled with just as much grit, joy, and maybe a few more snacks along the way!
Beloit Kansas
Jewell Kansas
Jewell, Kansas: From Sod Forts to County Seat
Nestled in the heart of Jewell County, Kansas, the city of Jewell boasts a history steeped in resilience and community spirit. Founded in 1870 as a large sod enclosure known as Fort Jewell, it was named in honor of Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis R. Jewell of the Sixth Kansas Cavalry, who died from wounds received during the Civil War. The fort was constructed by early settlers in response to threats from Native American tribes, particularly the Cheyenne, who had been involved in attacks on nearby settlements. In May 1870, following the killing of three men at a nearby milldam, a group of 28 local settlers formed the “Buffalo Militia” and erected a fort with four-foot-thick sod walls, standing seven feet high, enclosing a 50-square-yard area. This fortification provided a sense of security during a period of heightened tensions. kansashistory.gov+3en.wikipedia.org+3legendsofamerica.com+3jewell.krwa.net+1legendsofamerica.com+1ksgenweb.org+2legendsofamerica.com+2jewell.krwa.net+2
The Great Plains Heartland
Settling In: Mankato’s Quiet Kansas Night
The Journey Keeps Rolling
Mankato, Kansas, founded in the late 19th century, serves as the county seat of Jewell County. It grew around the expansion of the railroad, becoming a hub for agriculture and local commerce. With its quiet streets and welcoming community, Mankato embodies the resilient spirit of small-town Kansas—a perfect place for riders to recharge before hitting the open road again.
As the sun dipped low over Mankato, we rolled into town feeling accomplished and ready to rest. The day’s miles were marked not just by distance but by the stories told and the quiet beauty of Kansas rolling past our wheels. With the open plains behind us and a warm bed ahead, we celebrated the hard work, camaraderie, and simple joys of Bike Across Kansas 2025. Tomorrow we’re headed to Washington, Kansas — and word is, there are a lot of hills. A lot of hills ahead. So rest up, riders. The journey’s just getting started.
Bak Day5 Mankato to Washington-342.7
Good morning from Mankato, Kansas — where the sun is rising, tires are humming, and the group morale is just slightly higher than a bent derailleur. Today is Day 5 of Biking Across Kansas, and we’re aiming our handlebars toward Washington — that’s about 62 miles, give or take a few cow crossings.
Speaking of handlebars… one of our fearless crew almost went airborne this morning — a real Tour de Tumble moment. He gave the pavement a hug, scraped his elbow, sandpapered his back, and added some “abstract art” to his derailleur. He’s okay — tougher than a Casey’s breakfast pizza — and back on the road after a quick trail-side patch job and a few deep breaths.
So off we roll — bandaged, bonded, and built for more backroad adventure. The legs are stiff, the wind is unpredictable, and the chamois is doing heroic work. But hey — Kansas ain’t gonna bike itself. Washington, here we come!
#ShauneNation #BikeAcrossKansas #BAK2025 #CyclingLife #KansasRoads #BikeAdventure #RoadCycling #MorningRide #BikeLife #TwoWheels #CyclistCommunity #OutdoorLife #RideOn #BicycleLove #AdventureAwaits
Sunrise Ready: Bikes Prepped for the Road Ahead
Off the Beaten Path: Cuba, Kansas Detour
🏛️ Cuba, Kansas: A Town Built on Grit and Heritage
Cuba, Kansas, founded in 1868 and incorporated in 1885, stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of its settlers. Established by American southerners post-Civil War and later joined by Czech immigrants from Bohemia, the town’s name was inspired by a traveler who likened the community’s warmth to that of the island of Cuba .en.wikipedia.org+1wp.cubakansas.com+1
In 1884, the entire town relocated to its current site to be along the newly constructed railroad, ensuring its economic survival and growth . The Czech influence remains evident today, with local businesses offering traditional foods like kolaches and jaternice, and cultural events celebrating this rich heritage .en.wikipedia.orgwp.cubakansas.com
Despite its small size, Cuba has preserved its history through landmarks such as the restored blacksmith shop and the Cuba Heritage Center, which showcases artifacts from the town’s past, including Dr. C.W. McClaskey’s medical office#ShauneNation #CubaKansas #KansasHistory #CzechHeritage #SmallTownAmerica #HistoricPlaque #BikeAcrossKansas #BAK2025 #HeartlandHistory #RoadsideDiscovery #RuralRoots #CyclingThroughHistory .republiccountykansas.com+1kansas.com+1
Today, with a population of approximately 137, Cuba continues to honor its roots while adapting to the challenges of modern rural life .kansas-demographics.com+2worldpopulationreview.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2
In the heart of Cuba, Kansas, the Czech Stone Carving stands as a proud tribute to the town’s immigrant roots. Sculpted by local artist Glen Lojka, the granite monument depicts a Czech family arriving at a train station in the late 1800s — honoring the settlers who helped shape this small but mighty town.
wheel in the sky keeps on turning
The first windmill I spot, and right then my SiriusXM classic cassette kicks in with “Wind in the Sky Keeps Turning” — come on, perfect timing. Next up, “Winds of Change” by the Scorpions, followed by the timeless “Dust in the Wind.” It’s like the soundtrack was made for this ride.
This is a Perfect Example of This Week’s Ride: Down Then Up
\Welcome to Washington — Heart of the Heartland
When the Road Bites Back
Wiggle, Giggle, BOOM!
Five hundred miles into BAK, legs tired but spirits high, fueled by burritos and pulled pork—the true Kansas power-up. Then, a tiny swerve, a twitch, a giggle… and down we went.
Three of us tangled like rookies auditioning for the Tour de Kansas Rodeo Team. Handlebars locked, pedals crossed, pride scattered like trail mix. Someone even shouted, “My burrito!” mid-fall.
No harm done—just laughs, scrapes, bruised egos, and plenty of teasing to carry us to the next aid station. The ride isn’t all tailwinds and glory—it’s pulled pork and pedal chaos.
Oh, and about that crash? Rob actually won an award for it—the “BAK 2025 Training Wheels Award”—presented in front of the whole crew at the 2000 meeting. Guess falling with style deserves some recognition!
Classic BAK. And yep, we got right back up. Hungry as ever.
Conquering Day 5 — Hills, Heat, and Heart
Today’s ride took us from Mankato to Washington, Kansas — about 62 miles of rolling hills that kept our legs singing and our spirits high. The terrain was a perfect mix of ups and downs, reminding us why we love the challenge and freedom of the open road. Along the way, we soaked in the peaceful farmland views, waved to friendly locals, and even made a quick detour to visit charming Cuba, Kansas — a little town with big heart and rich history. Despite the occasional tough climb, laughter and good vibes filled the air, making every mile worth it. With the sun setting behind us and fresh legs ready for tomorrow, we’re feeling grateful and fired up for whatever lies ahead. Bring on Day 6!
BAK 2025 Day 6 — June 12: Washington to Sabetha, Kansas
Today I’m adding a carousel to see if this is easier to be looking at for blogging. On June 12, 2025, we rode 72.8 miles from Washington to Sabetha, Kansas, and all we did was climb hills—all day long. The rolling Kansas hills kept hitting us with steady challenges, no easy breaks. The morning winds came from the south, not the south-southwest like the forecast later showed, and only shifted after 11 a.m., so for the early miles, we were pushing right into that southerly breeze. Mid-ride, we detoured to Seneca for pulled pork sandwiches and Freewheels ice cream—the perfect fuel to power through the relentless hills and heat. The afternoon brought more climbing, but with the wind finally shifting, we got a little push to finish strong. No shortcuts, just pure grind, grit, and that satisfying ride-day feeling.
#BikeAcrossKansas #BAK2025 #KansasCycling #HillClimbGrind #PulledPorkFuel #ShauneNation #RideHard #CyclingLife
Kansas (lenticular images)
Marysville, Kansas — A Hidden Gem on the Ride
Rolling through Marysville today was like catching a breath of fresh, heartwarming Midwestern air. This charming town, nestled in the heart of the Flint Hills region, greeted us with its friendly smiles and classic small-town vibes that remind you why biking through Kansas is so special. Marysville is famous for its unique residents—the elusive black squirrels—that dart playfully through the parks and tree-lined streets, adding a little extra charm and surprise to the ride. From the quaint historic buildings to the peaceful rhythm of life here, Marysville felt like a place that’s stayed true to its roots—honest, welcoming, and full of stories waiting to be told.
As we pedaled through, the sun lit up the town in a way that made everything sparkle just a little brighter, and the gentle hum of the ride mixed perfectly with the peaceful hum of those famous black squirrels. It’s towns like Marysville that make the miles fly by and the journey truly memorable. Here’s to many more stops along the way, where every town adds a new chapter to the adventure.
Day 6 Conclusion
Well, we rolled, we climbed, we sweat through every sock we packed, and somehow we still managed to smile through it all (except maybe during that one hill that felt like it was personally offended we existed). The day served up black squirrels, pulled pork, and a crash so epic it might just earn Rob a spot in the BAK Hall of Fame — Training Wheels Division. Sure, the wind was like that one coworker who talks too much and never helps push, but we didn’t let it win. We rode hard, laughed harder, and at the end of the day, we earned every single burrito bite. Stay tuned, saddle up, and let’s see what kind of beautiful nonsense tomorrow brings. #BAK2025 #RobStillWon #NoPictureDidHappen #BlackSquirrelSquad
BAK 2025 Day 7 Sabetha to Troy
Highway to the Hilly Zone– Day 7
Welcome to Day 7 of Bike Across Kansas, a 55.5-mile tribute tour from Sabetha to Troy — brought to you by the greatest hits of classic rock… and calf cramps. The opening track? “Climb Every Hill” (extended version). Followed by “Stairway to Quad Pain” and “Highway 36 Blues,” featuring guest horns (from passing semis). Traffic was heavy, hills were relentless, and somewhere around mile 32, we hit the sweet spot between exhaustion and rock ‘n roll glory. If you didn’t sing out loud on a descent, were you even riding?
SAG 1 dAY 7 WITH WITH WINDMILL ROB BRAD SHAUNE
Rolling past those giant windmills felt like we were in a giant’s backyard—spinning slowly but watching our every move. The three of us cruised along, joking about how the wind was probably helping power those things while stealing our energy.
Then the hills showed up, like an old friend who’s equal parts welcome and awful. But with my two riding buddies beside me, even the steep climbs were somehow funnier—mostly because we took turns pretending the hills were behind us. Spoiler: they never were.
A green and yellow John Deere cruising like a boss through the heart of Kansas.
Severance, Kansas: Where Small-Town Grit Meets Kansas History
Severance boasted a range of civic institutions, including a post office (operational from 1869 to 1992), schools, and local businesses. The town’s layout featured a central business district with essential services like a general store, lumberyard, and medical facilities. Community events and gatherings played a significant role in fostering a tight-knit atmosphere among residents.
Cruising them back roads, climbing them hills.
The Rumble Strip Shuffle
Today’s highway stretch had us squeezed onto a razor-thin two-foot shoulder, and those rumble strips didn’t make things any easier. Trucks and semis thundered past like they were running a race, barely giving us room to breathe, while oncoming traffic zipped by close enough to feel the wind. The close calls piled up fast, and the danger factor was sky-high. It’s no wonder a few riders were seriously unhappy with this stretch—when the road’s that narrow and rough, every pedal stroke feels like a test of pure grit.
Troy, Kansas: Rolling Through History and Hills
The hills were non-stop all day long—no breaks, no mercy—testing every rider’s grit from start to finish. But after grinding through those endless climbs, the BAK crew finally rolled into Troy, Kansas, ready for a well-deserved break. Staying at the high school gave everyone a cozy spot to rest and recover, swapping stories and laughs about the day’s uphill battle. The warm welcome from town and the buzz of good company made the hard work fade just a little, reminding everyone that the toughest rides bring the best memories. Here’s to a night of rest before hitting the road again! (I did not get a good pic of Troy KS try to get one better and then add)
Troy Kansas (Downtown)
Troy to Elwood BAK 2025 The End
After seven gritty, glorious days on the road, the wheels finally stopped in Elwood — where Kansas meets the Mighty Mo’ and the journey turns into legend. Nearly 500 cyclists rolled to the banks of the Missouri River, tired but triumphant. One by one, we dipped our rear tires into the water — a time-honored BAK tradition — and paused for photos that captured more than just the moment. They held the sweat, the wind, the climbs, the laughter, and the stories from across the Sunflower State. We didn’t just ride across Kansas — we earned that river.
Final Dip at the Mighty Mo’ – BAK 2025 Finish Line Tradition
Shaune Campbell BAK 2025 ShauneNation.com
BAK 2025: A Ride to Remember
Nearly 600 strong — riders and volunteers alike — we’ve crossed Kansas and dipped our tires in the Mighty Missouri. This ride wasn’t just about distance; it was about determination, teamwork, and grit. The cyclists powered through hills, heat, and long days on the road, fueled by sheer will… and an absurd amount of bananas. Seriously, there were more bananas than anyone could eat — at one point, I half-expected to see a banana smoothie stand on every corner. Behind every mile was a dedicated crew providing SAG support, fixing flats, guiding the way, and cheering us forward. Without these incredible folks, BAK simply wouldn’t happen. From every rider’s heart to every volunteer’s hands — thank you.
Until next year, keep your wheels turning, your spirits high, and maybe… bring your own bananas.